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General Medication Fact Sheet for Naproxen
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Generic Name | Naproxen |
| Brand Name Versions | Aleve, Naprosyn |
| Boxed/Label Warning | NSAIDs may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. NSAIDs also increase the risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. |
| Purpose | Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation. |
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin synthesis. |
| Dosage Forms | Oral tablets, liquid suspension |
| Available Strengths | 250 mg, 375 mg, 500 mg |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically every 8-12 hours, or as directed by a healthcare provider. |
| Common Side Effects | Heartburn, abdominal pain, nausea, headache. |
| Serious Side Effects | Gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, heart problems, allergic reactions. |
| Drug Interactions | Other NSAIDs, anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), aspirin, certain antidepressants (SSRIs), ACE inhibitors, diuretics. |
| Important Notes | Take with food to minimize stomach upset; consult a doctor if you have heart, liver, or kidney problems. Long-term use increases the risk of side effects. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from moisture and light. |
| Missed Dose | Take as soon as you remember; skip if it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Ibuprofen, Celecoxib, Meloxicam, Diclofenac |
Naproxen Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) | Non-selective COX inhibitor | Commonly used for mild to moderate pain relief. |
| Celecoxib (Celebrex) | Selective COX-2 inhibitor | May have a lower risk of gastrointestinal side effects compared to non-selective NSAIDs. |
| Meloxicam (Mobic) | Selective COX-2 inhibitor | Once-daily dosing, may be suitable for chronic pain. |
| Diclofenac (Voltaren) | Non-selective COX inhibitor | Available in topical and oral forms. |
Naproxen Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Heartburn | Gastrointestinal bleeding |
| Abdominal pain | Kidney problems |
| Nausea | Heart problems (increased risk of heart attack or stroke) |
| Headache | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing) |
| Dizziness | Liver damage |
Naproxen Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osteoarthritis | 500 mg | 250-500 mg twice daily | Take with food. Adjust based on response. |
| Rheumatoid Arthritis | 500 mg | 250-500 mg twice daily | Take with food. Adjust based on response. |
| Ankylosing Spondylitis | 500 mg | 250-500 mg twice daily | Take with food. Adjust based on response. |
| Acute Gout | 750 mg | 250 mg every 8 hours until attack subsides | Take with food. |
Naproxen Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $10 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $15 – $20 |
| From CPS | $11 |
